Stella Maris JV Team Anticipates CHSAA Playoffs

By Maureen Gigliello

By Maureen Gigliello

With just 2 weeks left to the CHSAA Softball season, Stella Maris’ Junior Varsity team fully anticipates contending for the Division Championship. Their successful season has been the result of a tremendous team effort and several individuals stepping up in various situations to make the "big play".

One major offensive contribution has been the ability of the numbers 6 thru 9 hitters to get on base. Ana Arguera, Katrina Van Sluyk, Kristi Popik, Kristeen Maguire and Marie Leddy have filled these roles most admirably. With their On Base Percentage a whopping .585, they have afforded the top of the line up with ample RBI opportunities. Krysten Gaines (#1 slot) and Jackie Kress (#2 slot) each have 10 RBIs. Kelly McKinley (batting average of .611) and Tara Vasselman, in the clean up slot, with a BA of .500 have combined for 30 RBIs.

Defensively, Tara Lynch (starting right fielder) has 6 putouts coupled with 4 assists. Monica Curbelo (starting catcher), playing this physically exhausting position for the first time, has the work ethic of a thoroughbred. Monica is usually the last player off the field, as she takes extra fielding practice centering on footwork and positioning. Julie Vicens (starting third base) began the season in the outfield. With the untimely injury to Kate O’Sullivan, the team not only lost its third baseman but a major RBI contributor. Julie is one player who has stepped up to more than fill the void. Her play at third base improves daily. And last but never least is Jackie Geary. There are not enough words to describe the contributions of Jackie Geary. Jackie has played all 3 outfield positions and first base. Her BA of .454 and On Base percentage of .538 speak volumes.

Overall, the team has shown tremendous improvement in all facets of the game. The three most telling games, thus far, are those against St. Saviour. In the first game of the season, SM lost an error-plagued game 12-7. The second time around SM was victorious 12-7. The final regular-season meeting between the two schools resulted in a 19-7 victory for Stella Maris. Hopes are that this trend continues.

Flipper Footnotes: KMc, we’ll take the every 12.5-minute loop de loop pitch. Ladies, pay up the dollar to Krysten! MC, we thought Bernie Williams played centerfield? The Tara-to-Tara play is fantastic. Feel free to use it whenever! Thanks to all the parents and friends who come out (and brave the elements) to watch us play. Ms. K a special thanks to you.